Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Preston, Idaho. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Idaho Falls, known for high-quality residential installations and exceptional customer service. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation, with a strong focus on educating homeowners.
A well-established and highly respected solar contractor serving Idaho and Utah. They are known for their robust system designs, expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid applications, and strong manufacturer partnerships.
A reputable local installer known for personalized service and competitive pricing. They specialize in making solar accessible through various financing options and are very knowledgeable about local incentives and net metering policies with Rocky Mountain Power.
The home solar market in Preston, Idaho, is characteristic of a rural community: it has moderate competition with no major national installers having a significant local presence. Instead, the market is served by a handful of established, reputable regional companies based in larger nearby hubs like Idaho Falls and Pocatello. These providers are accustomed to serving the wider Southeastern Idaho region. The average quality of service is high, as these companies rely heavily on local reputation and word-of-mouth. They possess deep knowledge of local weather conditions, utility policies (Rocky Mountain Power), and state-specific incentives like the Idaho State Tax Deduction. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before the federal tax credit. For an average 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$16,800 to $21,000**. The strong net metering policy in the area makes solar a financially viable option for most homeowners, with payback periods typically between 8-12 years. Interest in battery storage is growing, but grid-tied systems remain the dominant choice due to the general reliability of the grid.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Preston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Preston, Idaho.
Preston's climate is excellent for solar, with high summer sun hours maximizing production. Winter snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and their dark surface accelerates melting. Regular production dips are factored into your system's annual energy estimate, ensuring it meets your needs year-round.
The average home system in Idaho costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Idaho homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, Idaho has no state sales tax on solar installations, and you may be eligible for net metering through your local utility, Rocky Mountain Power, which credits you for excess power sent to the grid.
Yes, you will need a building permit from Franklin County for the installation. Your chosen reputable solar provider will typically manage this entire permitting process for you. It's also important to check with Rocky Mountain Power for their specific interconnection agreement requirements to connect your system safely to the grid.
Look for installers licensed in Idaho with strong local experience, as they understand regional weather and utility requirements. Check reviews, ask for local references in Franklin County, and verify they are certified by organizations like NABCEP. Obtain multiple detailed quotes to compare equipment, warranties, and projected production specific to your home's layout and shading.
Yes, solutions exist. A site assessment will identify shading issues; options include strategic tree trimming or using micro-inverters to minimize the impact of shade on the whole system. For properties with barns or shops, a ground-mounted solar array is a popular and effective alternative, allowing you to place panels in an optimal, unshaded location on your land.